WHO, TikTok to collaborate on promoting science-based information

WHO poster on tackling mis-information.

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By Daniel Dembede 

The World Health Organization (WHO) and TikTok, a platform for short-form mobile videos, announced a year-long collaboration aimed at providing people with reliable, science-based health information. 

This reflects WHO's commitment to leveraging multiple digital communication platforms to increase outreach to people globally, to promote health literacy, healthy behaviours and actions in an increasingly digitised world.

Statistics indicate that one in four young adults actively seek news content on social media platforms, including TikTok. 

“The intersection of health and technology presents an opportunity to reach people of all ages, where they are, when they want to access,” said Dr Jeremy Farrar, WHO Chief Scientist.

“By working with TikTok and others, we are helping people access credible information and engage in scientific discourse that collectively helps shape a healthier future for all,” he added.

With over 1 billion people as part of its global community, TikTok is using its platform and technology to raise health awareness and increase access to trustworthy information.

"We know that millions of people come to TikTok every day to share and find community in all areas of their life, including their well-being, and we strive to ensure they can find reliable information on this important topic,” said Valiant Richey, Global Head of Trust and Safety Outreach and Partnerships, TikTok.

“That's why today we are delighted to be collaborating with the World Health Organization's Fides network of health influencers, to further strengthen this commitment by bringing engaging and authoritative mental well-being content to our community."

WHO’s Fides network, launched in 2020, has been mobilising health content creators to counter misinformation and elevate evidence-based content.

With a community of over 800 creators reaching 150 million people across various platforms, Fides can help enhance targeted, credible communication to help people access better health information.

Dr Alain Labrique, WHO’s Director of Digital Health and Innovation, emphasised the importance of this initiative.

He said, “Creators who understand their audience's needs have a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between science and everyday life. This is where WHO can step in to support influencers in delivering evidence-based information, ensuring that health conversations on platforms like TikTok are both impactful and informed.”

The collaboration will expand efforts around a number of relevant health topics, translating science-based information into relatable and digestible video content, with more support for influencers provided through TikTok's creator training programs.

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